Juvenile offenses

Schools in Washington typically take threats of violence seriously regardless of intent. This means that a teenager’s poor idea of a joke will likely be treated as a serious criminal matter, even if he or she only briefly made a poor decision. A teenager in Washington...

Every year, numerous children receive an autism diagnosis. It is a neurological disorder that causes them to view the world differently. It also causes them to not fully understand their actions or what is or isn’t appropriate behavior. With an increase in autism...

Girls who become pregnant as teenagers often do not have access to resources that would help them successfully parent and raise their babies, such as an income or supportive parents. Indeed, some teen girls may even be frightened of telling their families, and may...

The years between childhood and adulthood can be confusing, and are a period of time when most teenagers push boundaries. It is not uncommon for teens to try out different aspects of adulthood either, often by engaging in activities that they commonly associate with...

Washington parents already know how important it is for their children to get a good education. However, researchers believe that schools could be doing more to educate children while simultaneously reducing teen crime rates. Research has shown that the simple act of...

Anyone who has ever had to speak with a police officer concerning possible crimes knows just how stressful the situation can be. For children the process can be even more overwhelming, especially if they do not have someone who can advocate for their rights with them...

Traumatic events often have long-reaching impacts on Washington victims. A recent study found a definitive link between childhood trauma and juvenile arrests. The research is compelling, and even highlights how adverse childhood experiences -- ACEs -- can cause mental...

When Washington police suspect that someone may have committed a crime, they often proceed to question them. Most adults know that they have Miranda rights, meaning that they have the right to remain silent and not answer any questions. However, this concept is not...

A mental or substance use disorder can have a substantial impact on your teen’s overall behavior. Unfortunately, their condition could make them act impulsively and get them in trouble. The law in Washington recognizes that your child’s mental disorder or substance...

Limiting the possibility of incarceration is often a top priority for parents of teens who are facing criminal allegations. For some Washington parents, the opportunity for ankle monitors may seem preferable to time spent in a juvenile detention facility. The...